Cost of Living in Hale County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hale County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hale County, Alabama
Hale County rents strain modest incomes
Renters in Hale County spend 21% of their income on housing—double the standard threshold of 10% and higher than the national average. At $723 per month, median rent is close to the national mean, but Hale's median household income of $41,325 is 45% below the U.S. average of $74,755, squeezing household budgets significantly.
Housing affordability ranks below Alabama average
Hale County's 21.0% rent-to-income ratio places it above Alabama's 18.0% state average, putting it among the less affordable Alabama counties. The combination of lower incomes and moderate rents creates deeper affordability pressure than many statewide peers.
Similar challenges to nearby rural counties
Hale County shares affordability struggles with Jackson County (18.5% rent-to-income), also strapped by lower incomes despite reasonable rents. Both counties trail more affluent neighbors like Henry County (15.4%) where higher household incomes ease housing burden.
Where Hale County paychecks go
A typical Hale County renter earning $3,444 monthly dedicates $723 to gross rent, consuming 21% of income before taxes. Homeowners fare better, with an average monthly cost of $542, reflecting modest home values averaging $126,300.
Weighing a move to Hale County
If affordability tops your list, Hale offers the lowest median rents among these eight counties, but income levels matter—this county suits earners with stable $45,000+ jobs. Compare your actual salary against the 21% rent threshold to ensure housing remains manageable.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hale County
Rent Burden
21.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$964
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.7%
of gross income
The median home in Hale County may be a stretch
Median home value is $126,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,008 vs. your max of $964.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.